Anderson Peynetsa
is the brother of Priscilla, and the son of Wilma Jean Peynetsa. Anderson began
making pottery in the eighth grade and in the last ten years or so has now
developed into an outstanding craftsman. He is among the best-known potters at
Zuni pueblo who work within the traditional style. This involves gathering the
clay and the natural pigments used to paint the designs on the pottery from the
area around the Zuni Pueblo. His thin-walled pots are hand coiled and fired
outdoors (not in a kiln), and the designs on them are a progression of the
traditional designs of his ancestors. Anderson is a master of interpreting the
ancient designs to produce his contemporary themes. His jars are often large,
but exude a remarkable appeal of smoothness and balance. His Walking-Deer design
has made him famous, but he also makes whimsical Peering-Lizard pots in which
the heads of a number of geckos extending over the rim of the pot. In making his
pots, Anderson is often aided by his wife, Aurelia, who polishes his clay
creations.
Anderson has been distinguished many times with prestigious awards for his work,
and has been invited to visit the Heard museum on a number of occasions.
Gift Certificates make outstanding gifts for friends, family or loved
ones.
